ACCESSIBILITY AT RHYTHM AND VINES

At Rhythm & Vines, we are dedicated to ensuring everyone can join in the fun, regardless of their individual needs. We're committed to creating an accessible and inclusive environment so everyone can enjoy the festival to its fullest.

Below, you’ll find information about the accessibility services available to enhance your experience. We want to ensure you have the best time possible, so please don’t hesitate to ask any questions.

For more detailed information, you can download our full Access Guide here. It contains all the specifics about accessibility at the festival. We’re here to ensure you have an unforgettable experience!

ACCESSIBLE PARKING

We have a dedicated accessible parking area in the Lower East Car Park, reserved for permit holders. When entering the car park, simply mention accessible parking, and our staff will direct you to the designated area. The festival entrance is approximately [XXX meters] from this area, and the path is grassy, so please plan accordingly.

ACCESSIBLE TOILETS AND SHOWERS

Accessible Toilets – Locations TBC (marked on festival map) [Add Map]

Accessible Showers –  Locations TBC (marked on festival map) [Add Map]

VIEWING PLATFORMS

We offer two elevated viewing platforms for guests with disabilities and their companions, providing clear views of performances without navigating crowds. You can find them at the Vines Stage and the Rhythm Stage. 

  • The Rhythm Platform is exclusively reserved for accessible patrons and their companions.
  • The Vines Platform is shared with our VIP patrons.

If you’re not a wheelchair user, our Security team may ask a few questions to ensure accessible spaces are available for those who need them most. We appreciate your understanding and cooperation.

Important Reminders

  • During peak times, we may ask those not relying on a companion to make space for others with greater access needs. Your companion can still stand nearby.
  • Spots cannot be saved in advance; all space is first come, first served.
  • Both viewing platforms are non-smoking.

COMPANION PASSES

We offer companion passes to support festival-goers who require assistance. After purchasing your festival ticket, please contact us at hello@rhythmandvines.co.nz with the following details to request a companion pass:

  • Your festival ticket order number
  • The email address used to purchase your ticket
  • The full name of your companion

Please note that we may request additional information before approving your application. The deadline for applications is 30 November 2025

Companion Ticket Terms & Conditions

  • To apply for a companion ticket, you must have already purchased a festival ticket.
  • Companion tickets are available for individuals who need support to attend the festival. Please apply only if this applies to you.
  • By requesting a companion ticket, you confirm that your companion is willing and able to assist with the application process (if needed) and provide support throughout the festival.

Companion Responsibilities

  • Companions must arrive and leave the festival with the person they are supporting.
  • Companions should be prepared to assist with tasks, including helping during an evacuation or emergency.
  • Companions must have the experience and ability to provide necessary support and assist with tasks during the festival.

HIDDEN DISABILITIES

We proudly participate in the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Initiative, offering Sunflower Passes for those with non-visible disabilities. These passes allow you to discreetly signal to our staff that you may need additional assistance during the festival. You can collect your Sunflower Lanyard at the Customer Service desk at North Check-In, located after the Bag Search. If you would like to request a pass, please register your interest using the form below.

What is a hidden disability?
While some disabilities are visible, many are not. These can include neurological, cognitive, neurodevelopmental, sensory, auditory, or visual impairments. Hidden disabilities can be temporary, situational, or long-term. You can find more information here.

Photo

ASSISTANCE ANIMALS

Assistance animals, such as guide dogs and medical alert dogs, are welcome at the festival. However, because the event is held on a working farm, these animals must meet veterinary requirements to prevent the spread of diseases like sheep measles. This may include vaccinations or medications. Please notify us in advance via email or the form below to ensure all necessary procedures are followed for your assistance animal.

MEDICATION

If you’re bringing prescription medication to the festival, ensure it’s in its original packaging with the pharmacy label matching the ticket holder’s ID. You can only bring the amount of medication needed for the festival dates. Any excess may be reviewed by our onsite medical team and could be held until after the event.

SITE LAYOUT AND GROUND CONDITIONS?

The festival takes place outdoors on a working farm, so the terrain varies. The main festival area is grass-covered, with dirt roads serving as walkways. The landscape is hilly, with some areas featuring steep inclines and declines. Weather can also affect ground conditions, with wet weather creating muddy areas and hot weather causing dry, dusty conditions.

While we aim to assist onsite, we recommend that patrons bring sturdy mobility aids and necessary support.  Please note that we are unable to provide transport up or down "I Love You, Bro" hill due to safety concerns. This is a pedestrian walkway, and adding a vehicle could create risks for other festival-goers.

We appreciate your understanding and encourage you to plan to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience.

[Add map with terrain key]

[Add table with distances (in meters)]

ASSISTANCE FOR TEMPORARY IMPAIRMENTS?

Our access facilities are specifically designed for those with long-term accessibility needs. As a result, we are unable to offer special parking, reserved camping or additional assistance for temporary impairments, such as broken bones, healing injuries, or similar conditions. If you're managing a temporary impairment and have concerns about attending the festival, you can reach out for any specific questions on the form below.

We are committed to making our festival as inclusive as possible. If you have specific needs or concerns not addressed here, please don’t hesitate to get in touch. We’ll do our best to accommodate you and ensure you have a fantastic experience!

For any assistance or questions, contact us at accessibility@rhythmandvines.co.nz or fill out the form below.

[Add form connecting to Typeform - cells needed]

  • Full Name
  • Email Address
  • Message [Prompt: Connect with us to discuss how we can make your experience easier]

Photo

[Add map of all accessibility offerings]